What is Pilgrimage?

This page isn't about the logistics for a walking pilgrimage but focuses on personal experiences of a Catholic pilgrimage. If you've walked the Caminos or another path, please share your journey below. For practical details, check out The Pilgrimage Traveler.

Traveling with friends, family, and strangers on this journey is a spiritual adventure that deepens faith, fosters penance, and brings us closer to God. By the end of our trip, these strangers have become like family.

A pilgrimage can differ from tourism. You might not see everything or buy souvenirs, unless they, too, are part of your faith journey.

Unplug from worldly distractions and connect with heavenly, holy things.

We'd love to hear about your experiences!

Embarking on a pilgrimage can be physically demanding, so preparation is key.

• Footwear: Bring comfortable shoes, ideally two pairs.
• Packing: Pack light, especially if you'll be staying in multiple hotels. Less is more—leaving room for a statue or two.
• Mindset: Remember, this is a pilgrimage, not a tourist trip. Focus on the spiritual experience.
• Sights: While there are many sites to see, keep your attention on the divine encounter.
• Open-heartedness: Embrace the journey, including its challenges.
• Community: Above all, enjoy the company of fellow pilgrims.

Important: It is against the law for me to accept submissions from anyone under the age of 16 years old, unless I have a parent or guardian's consent. If you would like to share your experience, please have your parent or guardian add their name at the end of the form. Thank you.

Love to hear from my brothers and sisters in Christ

I would love to hear from you about your experiences when on pilgrimage.

• What was your God moment?
• Did your experience happen right on the spot or later when you got home?
• Was any of your prayer intentions met?
• Did you have any challenges you would like to share? Ie, Food, Accommodations, Flights etc.
• How was your tour guide or guides?
• Where did you go?
• Would you do it again and why?
• Did you have a profound experience from a priest?

So many of us have travel far to stand on Holy Ground and have experienced a miracle, but we don't have any place to talk about it. Here is your place to share.

I know there will be a few laughs and serious moments to talk about. Please fill out the fields below and I will present your stories for others to experience.

As you fill out each section, click on the ? for more help if needed.

Embarking on a Catholic pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual journey, offering a profound sense of connection to one's faith and to God. However, it comes with its unique set of challenges. Pilgrims often face physical hardships such as long walks, unpredictable weather, and basic accommodations, which test their endurance and resilience.

Beyond the physical, the journey also poses emotional and spiritual challenges, prompting pilgrims to confront personal struggles, seek penance, and embrace moments of solitude and reflection. Despite these difficulties, the pilgrimage experience fosters spiritual growth, a stronger sense of community, and a renewed commitment to one's faith.

This was my personal challenge; let's dive into the challenges of a pilgrimage.

Recently, I embarked on a pilgrimage to Fatima, Portugal. After an overnight flight and long passport lines, I felt the first physical toll on my body. Ignoring the clock to avoid feeling worse, I focused on staying present, knowing I was in God's hands.

At Lisbon Airport, waiting for our group’s flights, my weariness grew. Running on adrenaline from sleep deprivation, I eagerly anticipated getting to our hotel. Finally, with everyone gathered, we were set to move to the bus. Hotel, here we come! Or so I thought.

Nope, not the plan. Hungry, tired, and it was time for Mass. Our group groaned collectively; we were pushed right out of our comfort zones from the start.